Next up: the Cincinnati Bengals, who must find a replacement for Geno Atkins. Whether the battered, 32-year-old Ratliff can plug the hole is an open question.

Ratliff, a defensive tackle, departed the Cowboys in what the team, according to some reports, believes was akin to desertion. Reports during the week hinted at legal action against Ratliff should he sign with another team.

And other teams are interested. The Bengals are said to have called with an inquiry about Ratliff. Atkins' injury on Thursday night did considerable damage to their hope of winning the AFC North.

Atkins will have surgery for a torn ACL in his right knee. The Bengals' defense is sawn by injuries, leaving it vulnerable every week.